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Drug Info

Can you skip a week of Wegovy?

Even if you’re traveling, you should stick to your regular dosing schedule
Heidi Borst
By | Oct. 31, 2024 Medically reviewed by Marissa Walsh, Pharm.D., BCPS-AQ ID

Key takeaways

  • Sticking to a regular weekly dosing schedule of Wegovy is crucial for effective weight management.

  • Skipping doses can disrupt your treatment plan and hinder weight loss progress.

  • If you’re considering changing your dosing schedule, consult your healthcare provider first.

  • Proper planning can help maintain your Wegovy schedule during vacations.

  • If you miss a dose, seek guidance from a healthcare provider to return to your routine safely.

In this article:

Wegovy (semaglutide) injection is a brand-name prescription used for chronic weight management in adults and children 12 years of age and older with obesity—defined as a body mass index (BMI) of 30 kg/m2 or greater. It’s also used in overweight adults (a BMI of 27 kg/m2 or greater) with at least one weight-related health condition, such as high blood pressure, high cholesterol, obstructive sleep apnea, or Type 2 diabetes. This weight-loss medication is also approved to reduce the risk of heart attack and stroke in individuals with cardiovascular disease.

Wegovy is administered through a weekly injection. While it may be tempting to skip a dose of Wevovy, you should always stick to the dosing schedule prescribed by your healthcare provider.

The importance of adhering to Wegovy’s dosing schedule

Wegovy, a glucagon-like peptide-1 receptor agonist, supports weight loss by mimicking the hormone GLP-1, slowing digestion, and reducing appetite. According to David Nazarian, MD, a board-certified internist at My Concierge MD in Beverly Hills, California, patients start at the lowest dose and gradually increase it based on their needs and how their bodies respond to the medication.

Here is a typical weekly dosing schedule for Wegovy:

  • Month one (weeks one to four): 0.25 mg initial weekly dose
  • Month two (weeks five to eight): 0.5 mg (dose increase)
  • Month three (weeks nine to 12): 1.0 mg (dose increase)
  • Month four (weeks 13 to 16 or longer): 1.7 mg (dose increase/maintenance dose)
  • Month five (week 17 and onward): 2.4 mg (dose increase/maintenance dose)

“Maintaining a consistent weekly injection schedule is important to ensure your body maintains a consistent level of medication,” explains Paul Rosenberg, MD, a board-certified plastic surgeon in Fort Lee, NJ. Skipping doses can disrupt this balance and reduce the medication’s effectiveness, hampering your weight loss journey.

Additionally, taking Wegovy on the same day every week is essential for minimizing potential side effects like nausea, vomiting, and other gastrointestinal issues. It is not recommended to take it early (even by a day) or late. “If you’re considering adjusting your dosing schedule, it’s best to consult with your healthcare provider for guidance,” Dr. Nazarian says.

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Can you skip a week of Wegovy?

A single missed Wegovy dose might not cause major issues. However, it may increase your risk of side effects with the next administration and may depend upon the current dose. Dr. Nazarian says it’s important to maintain your dosing schedule to achieve optimal results and minimize potential health risks.

“It’s always important to maintain open communication and keep your healthcare provider abreast of your progress, including missed doses and if you’re experiencing any side effects,” notes Dr. Rosenberg.

Common Wegovy side effects include:

  • Upset stomach, nausea, and vomiting
  • Diarrhea or constipation
  • Stomach pain
  • Headache
  • Fatigue
  • Dizziness
  • Gas, bloating, or belching
  • Hypoglycemia (low blood sugar)
  • Heartburn
  • Runny nose or sore throat
  • Redness and irritation at the injection site

Wegovy may cause the following serious side effects:

  • Severe allergic reactions
  • Pancreatitis (inflammation of the pancreas)
  • Gallstones and gallbladder problems
  • Kidney problems or kidney failure
  • Changes in vision
  • Increased heart rate
  • Depression or suicidal thoughts

Wegovy may cause thyroid tumors, including thyroid cancer, and should not be used by individuals with Multiple Endocrine Neoplasia syndrome type 2 (MEN 2). Consult a healthcare professional for medical advice if you have a history of pancreas or kidney problems, diabetic retinopathy, depression, mental health issues, or you’re pregnant or breastfeeding.

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Can you skip Wegovy while on vacation?

If you’re thinking of skipping your Wegovy dose so you don’t have to manage injections while traveling, Dr. Rosenberg advises against it. Continuing your dosing routine while you’re away is essential to avoid potential setbacks and side effects.

These strategies can help you stay on track while on vacation:

  • Make sure your schedule is free at the time of your weekly injection.
  • Set a reminder so you don’t forget to inject Wegovy.
  • Bring your Wegovy pen with you and ensure it’s stored at the correct temperature. “Once removed from the refrigerator, the medication should not be left out for more than 28 days at room temperature,” says Dr. Rosenberg.

Regardless of the reason, consult with your provider if you’re considering changing your Wegovy dosage. Making changes without guidance can be risky and might not help you lose as much body weight.

RELATED: Does Wegovy need to be refrigerated?

What happens if you miss a Wegovy dose?

In the short term, missing a dose may increase appetite or cravings, says Dr. Rosenberg. He adds that regularly missing doses can increase side effects and reduce the overall effectiveness of the medication, leading to slower weight loss or potentially weight gain.

If you do miss a dose of Wegovy, Dr. Nazarian advises against doubling up. “If your next scheduled dose is less than two days away, skip the missed dose and continue with your regular dosing schedule,” he says. But if your next scheduled dose is more than two days away, take the missed dose as soon as you remember and take the next dose a week later.

 “If you miss a dose for more than two weeks, it’s important to consult with your healthcare provider. They can assess your situation and guide you on how to restart your treatment safely,” Dr. Nazarian says. He adds that they may recommend adjusting your dosing schedule or other strategies to help you get back on track.

The bottom line

Taking Wegovy as prescribed is important for best results, as skipping doses can make your weight-loss treatment less effective. Maintaining open communication with your healthcare provider is essential for a successful Wegovy treatment plan. “Don’t hesitate to discuss any questions, concerns, or changes you notice while taking the medication,” says Dr. Nazarian. “We’re here to provide personalized guidance and support to help you achieve your weight loss goals.”